Nabila Nugroho shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Hi Nabila, thank you so much for joining us today. We’re thrilled to learn more about your journey, values and what you are currently working on. Let’s start with an ice breaker: What do you think others are secretly struggling with—but never say?
Speaking from a creative’s point of view – when we are about to start our creative endeavours but secretly have a few to little idea on how to start. Or even when you are already in the middle of your journey, sometimes you can’t help but question yourself : is it gonna be worth it?
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name’s Nabila Nugroho — a creative based in Indonesia who makes illustrations and merchandise for my original character, Maquire by K027. She’s an anime-style character who’s sassy, bold, and the perfect mix of a kind rebel — someone who lives her own way, kindly but unapologetically.
What makes my brand stand out is that I love exploring different visual themes and teaming up with local brands to create one-of-a-kind merch.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
Maybe it all started when I first created Maquire.
I’ve always loved IP-based merchandise and got super excited collecting them growing up. Coming from a family that makes custom merchandise for a living, I think there’s always been this little dream in me — to have my own IP brand and see people proudly wearing my merch.
I still remember getting my very first acrylic keychain samples! Even before selling them, I was already over the moon — seeing my ideas come to life and realizing I could actually make a living from my art.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
I think it comes in seasons — especially when I’m chasing something big, like getting accepted into my dream art events or entering contests with huge rewards that could really boost my brand.
For example, this year (2025) I aimed for two high-level art events in Indonesia. I prepared everything the best I could, but ended up getting rejected — kindly, but still rejected. It made me question a lot of things about myself — whether my art is too niche for people to get, or if maybe I’m not trying hard enough to fit in… which is kind of ironic, considering the whole “rebel” belief I stand by.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. Is the public version of you the real you?
Sometimes I overthink how my artist friends or fans see me — they often think I’m this cheerful, helpful person, when in reality I’m actually pretty closed off and get easily burnt out from social events. It’s not that I’m faking it, but more like… I use up a lot of energy trying to connect, and then need a long time to recharge afterward.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
Maybe it’s about how much I believe in my work — when I commit to something, I really go all out for it.
Starting a brand out of your own art is pretty bold, and not everyone can stay consistent doing the same thing for years. I want to be known for that — for my success and resilience.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://maquire.carrd.co
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maquiremqr/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisisk027/
- Twitter: https://x.com/maquirebyk027
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@maquiremqr
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
